The build-up to the newly expanded FIFA Club World Cup has taken an unexpected twist—and Chelsea are right in the middle of it.
With just over a month to go before kickoff, one of their potential group opponents has been thrown out of the tournament, leaving a big question mark over who will fill the vacant spot.
FIFA Stands Firm on Multi-Club Ownership Rules
On Tuesday, the Court of Arbitration for Sport backed FIFA’s decision to ban Mexican side Leon from the competition.
The reason? Multi-club ownership. Leon and fellow Liga MX club CF Pachuca are both owned by the same parent company, Grupo Pachuca.
And while Pachuca qualified separately, FIFA rules clearly state that no two teams under the same ownership group can compete in the same tournament.
Leon had hoped to join Chelsea in Group D alongside Flamengo (Brazil) and Esperance de Tunis (Tunisia), but the ruling has now made that impossible.
Who Will Take Leon’s Place?
So who will Chelsea actually face in the group stage? That’s still up in the air.
For now, no replacement team has been officially confirmed.
Costa Rican side Alajuelense had been floated as a potential candidate, but FIFA is now reportedly leaning towards holding a play-off match to determine the final spot.
According to BBC Sport, Major League Soccer’s LAFC and Mexican powerhouse Club America are being considered for a one-off showdown.
FIFA said in a statement that it is actively exploring “one play-off match between LAFC and Club America” to decide who gets the nod.
A Possible Reunion for Chelsea Fans
If LAFC do get the green light and go on to win the play-off, Chelsea fans could be in for a nostalgic twist.
French striker Olivier Giroud—now with LAFC—might face off against his former club.
During his time at Stamford Bridge, Giroud helped the Blues win the Europa League, Champions League, and the FA Cup.
A reunion on this big stage would certainly add a bit of spice to the group.
The Clock Is Ticking
With the tournament fast approaching, FIFA will need to finalize the lineup soon.
Chelsea, under new manager Enzo Maresca, will be eager to prepare properly—but without knowing their full list of group opponents, that’s proving difficult.
As it stands, the final piece of the puzzle remains unsettled.